A streamlined freight logistics management process, offered by integrated freight logistics solutions company Manta Freight Logistics, is being positioned as a possible solution to combat ongoing port logistics issues in South Africa, as well as the rest of Africa.

Through Manta Freight Logistics’ freight management processes, customers are assigned a single point-of-contact when dealing with freight consignments, thereby simplifying the management protocol, aiding in operational efficiency and contributing to fewer administrative duties needing to be performed by multiple people in different departments.

Manta Freight Logistics CEO Michael Tziranis explains that the process undertaken by the company starts with the assignment of a logistics controller, who will be responsible for the arrangement of the forwarding of the shipment with the respective agent at origin, as well as the making of bookings with road, air and sea freight providers.

He adds that the assigned controller will proceed to update the customer on the status of the shipment, while tracking is implemented through status reports that are conducted and updated in emails, or on WhatsApp groups.

Additionally, Tziranis points out that the single point-of-contact is then responsible for activating the necessary functions within the operations, which include the forwarding of customs clearance, verification of clearing instructions and other related tasks, to ensure an efficient customs process.

“You have one contact person from the placement of the order, either from the factory or supplier, right down through to the final last mile delivery.”

Port Pains

He points out that a “pain point” in South African forwarding and logistics has been inefficiencies at the Durban marine port, where shipping vessels have been unable to moor in the harbour for extended periods. This situation is compounded by the Port of Durban undergoing a privatisation takeover of operations by Philippines-headquartered ports management company International Container Terminal Services.

Tziranis highlights that logistics operations at the Port of Durban are an “absolute disaster”, with there being little to no functionality of infrastructure and systems, which has resulted in shipping vessels being docked outside of Durban for two or more weeks at a time.

He notes that October and November 2023, were at the height of the challenges, with vessels having to reroute. Although this issue has gotten slightly better, there are still challenges regarding workforce and turnaround times.

He points out that the booking system for the booking of vehicles and the loading of containers by State-owned freight logistics company Transnet is “extremely slow”.

Tziranis adds that Manta Freight Logistics’ network of 150 offices globally are all independently owned and operated, noting that these companies are flexible and steadfast in their approach to securing the best options, such as base rates and the quickest transit times.

He notes that Manta Freight Logistics is not “tied down” to a specific logistics company, but instead uses multiple providers, enabling the company to leverage the most suitable provider for specific jobs.

Tziranis concludes that the company is also able to offer cross trade services with the agencies it works with to move shipments directly from the destination or origin in Europe, China and elsewhere, directly to, or from, the African continent.